New Equine Test

Lavender Foal Syndrome (LFS)

Description:

Lavender Foal Syndrome (LFS) also known as Coat color Dilution Lethal (CCDL), is a recessive genetic disorder. Affected foals often have a difficult delivery, problems standing at birth and usually have episodes where they rigidly extend their limbs, neck and back. These episodes tend to resemble a seizure, although the affected foal does not seem normal between episodes. All affected foals are usually euthanized within days or weeks of birth.

The Onderstepoort Veterinary Genetics Laboratory in 2009 found the mutation responsible for the genetic condition known as Lavender Foal Syndrome (LFS) in Arabian horses and has developed a DNA-based test for this condition. Studies show that the prevalence of carriers in the Egyptian Arabian population is around 10%.

The SNP mutation that causes LFS has not been detected in other breeds. Testing for this mutation in horses with no Arabian blood lines is not recommended. However, in cases where pedigree is not known, testing could be a useful tool to prevent possible affected foals.

Test Results:

Animal Genetics offers DNA testing for Lavender Foal Syndrome (LFS). The genetic test verifies the presence of the recessive LFS Gene and presents results as one of the following:

LFS/LFS

Affected

The horse carries two copies of LFS and is homozygous for LFS. The horse is affected with the LFS genetic disorder.

N/LFS

Carrier

Both the normal and LFS alleles were detected. Horse tested heterozygous for LFS. The horse is a carrier of LFS genetic disorder and there is a 50% chance this horse will pass a LFS allele to its offspring.

N/N

Clear

Tested negative for the LFS. Horse can be considered a non-carrier.

Submit a Sample for Testing:

To submit a sample for testing please click on ORDER and download a sample submission form. Then follow the sample collection and submission instructions.